Gujarat Government Extends Ban on Gutka and Tobacco-Laced Paan Masala

The Gujarat government has extended its ban on gutka and tobacco-laced paan masala for another year, aiming to safeguard public health. The ban, initially implemented in 2012 under the Food Safety and Standards Act, prohibits the sale, storage, and distribution of these cancer-causing substances.

The Gujarat government has extended its comprehensive ban on gutka and tobacco-laced paan masala for another year to protect the health of citizens and future generations, according to an official release on Thursday.

The sale, storage, and distribution of gutka and tobacco or nicotine-laced paan masala remain prohibited in the state. These substances, known to cause cancer, were first banned in 2012 under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2011. As per the regulations, the mixing of tobacco or nicotine with any food item is forbidden.

'The presence of tobacco or nicotine in gutka or paan masala is detrimental to human health. Hence, the ban needs to continue to ensure the well-being of citizens and future generations,' the release stated. A strict legal action awaits any trader or shopkeeper caught selling, stocking, or distributing gutka or paan masala containing tobacco or nicotine.

(With inputs from agencies.)